A West Monroe, La., insurance agent was recently served with a cease and desist order and fine notification amid allegations of forgery, misappropriation and misrepresentation.

The Louisiana Department of Insurance sent the notices to Michael Chad Olinde, 37, ordering that he stop working as an agent and pay a $5,000 fine. He has 30 days from the April 12 notice to request an administrative hearing on the allegations.

The department alleged Olinde forged signatures on applications for insurance while working as a commissioned agent between January 2006 and April 2008.

Through these fraudulent practices, investigators allege, Olinde submitted applications with invalid bank accounts, securing $4,428 in advance commission payments.

The department said Olinde held a life, health and accident license from March 2000 through April 2008.